Mobile Lift Transfers Overview

Overview

This demonstration explains the use of a mobile total body lift for safe patient handling, focusing on transferring a patient from bed to wheelchair and back. The mobile lift works similarly to a ceiling lift but is floor-based, allowing for mobility and flexible use across different locations.

Device Features

• Mobile lift is equipped with wheels for easy movement between rooms or locations.
• The base can be adjusted: it narrows to enhance maneuverability and widens to provide stability when lifting a patient.
• Wheels have a locking mechanism to secure the device during patient transfers.
• The vertical arm's height can be raised or lowered, accommodating various transfer situations, including lifting a patient from the floor.
• The crossbar can rotate, allowing the caregiver to adjust the direction the patient faces during transfers.
• Different manufacturers may have variations in design, such as vertical clearance, but all follow similar safety principles.

Sling Components and Color-Coding

• Slings are similar to those used with ceiling lifts but may include additional containment around the legs and midsection for full patient support.
• Always select the appropriately sized sling for the patient's body dimensions.
• Place the sling so that the top aligns with the upper trunk and the bottom is positioned at the sacrum level.
• Color-coding ensures the straps are attached symmetrically to avoid tilting or instability during lifts.

Sling Placement Procedure

• Assist the patient into a side-lying position using the bed rail for support.
• Position the sling beneath the patient, placing the top at the upper trunk and the bottom near the sacrum.
• Gently roll the patient onto their back, then to the opposite side to pull the sling and straps completely underneath.
• Return the patient to a supine position.
• Place and straighten out the leg straps under the thighs, removing as many wrinkles as possible to improve comfort during the lift.
• Confirm that all straps are accessible and properly laid out for connection to the lift.

Transfer from Bed to Wheelchair

• Prepare the wheelchair: remove leg rests and lock the wheels to keep it steady.
• Lower the bed rail and bring the mobile lift to the bedside, widening the base to fit it securely under the bed for stability.
• Lock the lift's wheels to prevent movement during transfer.
• Attach sling straps to the lift bar, ensuring the use of the correct color-coded loops for each attachment point (top, side, leg) on both sides.
• Elevate the head of the bed slightly, if desired, to aid comfort.
• Adjust the lift so the crossbar is positioned a safe vertical distance above the patient’s face and body.
• Use the lift to raise the patient smoothly until clear of the bed.
• Unlock the lift wheels and carefully move the patient, with the helper guiding the sling and lift towards the wheelchair.
• Position the patient above the wheelchair, making sure the sling’s leg supports are evenly placed.
• Lock the lift’s wheels again and slowly lower the patient into a seated posture, rotating as necessary to maintain alignment.
• Once seated, detach straps by activating the release mechanisms, ensuring the patient remains supported at all times.

Transfer from Wheelchair to Bed

• Raise the lift arm to provide sufficient vertical clearance to lift the patient out of the chair.
• Double-check that the wheelchair remains locked for safety during the lift.
• Re-attach the sling using the same color-matched configuration as before, ensuring symmetric support.
• Confirm the crossbar is clear of the patient’s face to avoid contact.
• Unlock and maneuver the lift away from the chair, then guide it back toward the bed as the patient is lifted.
• As the patient is positioned above the bed, align them so they are centered, with assistance if needed.
• Lock the lift’s wheels and slowly lower the patient onto the bed, ensuring the sling remains properly positioned.
• Ask the patient to raise their legs if able to assist in achieving the best lying position.
• Remove straps after full contact with the bed is reestablished, taking care to avoid tangling.

Post-Transfer Procedures

• If the patient is not optimally placed after the initial descent, use a draw sheet or slippery sheet to gently reposition them without excessive strain.
• Raise the bed rails and roll the patient from side to side as needed to remove the sling from underneath them completely.
• Ensure the patient is fully covered, comfortable, and that their call bell is within easy reach.
• Always reassess patient comfort and safety before ending the procedure.

Safety Considerations

• Maintain a safe vertical distance between the lift’s crossbar and the patient’s face and chest throughout each step to prevent accidental contact or injury.
• Always lock device wheels before raising or lowering the patient to prevent accidental movement.
• Smooth out all wrinkles in the sling before lifting to maximize patient comfort and reduce risk of pressure points.
• Be aware of device-specific requirements for vertical clearance, especially for transfers from the floor, as specifications differ by manufacturer.
• Ensure sling straps are attached symmetrically and with matching color codes on both sides to maintain stability and prevent tipping.
• Instruct the patient to keep their hands on their chest or hold onto the bar during transfers for added safety.
• Continuously observe the patient's condition for comfort and well-being throughout the entire process, making necessary adjustments as needed.
• The procedures outlined can be used in reverse to return the patient from chair to bed or for transferring from the floor, depending on equipment capability.